Evidence supporting the use of: Phellodendron amurense
For the health condition: Cough (dry)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Phellodendron amurense, commonly known as Amur cork tree, is an herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Its bark, called "Huang Bai" in Chinese, has a long history of use primarily for "clearing heat" and "drying dampness." While it is better known for addressing conditions like diarrhea, dysentery, urinary tract infections, and inflammatory skin disorders, there is some traditional use for cough—typically when the cough is associated with heat or phlegm-dampness syndromes. However, its use for specifically treating a dry cough is not prominent in the major TCM classical texts. In formulas, it is sometimes included as a secondary ingredient to support lung health or reduce inflammation that may contribute to cough. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that Phellodendron contains berberine and other alkaloids with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and some antitussive (cough-suppressing) properties, though these findings are preliminary and not focused specifically on dry cough. Overall, the use of Phellodendron amurense for dry cough is based more on traditional practices and its broad anti-inflammatory effects rather than robust clinical or pharmacological evidence. Thus, its effectiveness for this specific condition remains uncertain and is supported only at a modest level by tradition, not by strong scientific validation.

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